The Director-General of the Nigeria Centre For Disease Control (NCDC) Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu has advised Nigerians to go for improvised face masks due to a shortage of medical masks globally.
He also stated that these improvised masks can be used as long as they are washed properly, as they are made of cloth. The NCDC boss also added that improper disposal of medical masks can increase the risk of contracting COVID-19.
See some of the tweets below:
Due to the global shortage of medical masks, please make use of improvised options such as cloth masks.
Improvised masks can be used as long as they are properly washed regularly. They can be made out of cloth or other materials.#TakeResponsibility
— NCDC (@NCDCgov) April 14, 2020
It is critical to ensure proper handling of masks. Improper disposal & frequent touching can increase risk of infection with the #COVID19 virus.
Please note, medical masks are best reserved for patients & healthcare workers who need them most.#TakeResponsibility
— NCDC (@NCDCgov) April 14, 2020
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Dr Chikwe mentioned that the NCDC recognised the need for guidance on COVID-19 prevention, and remains committed to keeping Nigerians informed on verified ways to stay safe against the pandemic.
He said that globally, there was a debate on the effectiveness of masks as a preventive measure against COVID-19.
According to him, evidence in favour of the use of masks includes that it can prevent an asymptomatic person (a person who never develops symptoms) from transmitting the disease.
Also, it can as well prevent transmission during the pre-symptomatic period ( before a person develops symptoms).
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